If you have more than 4 fans (or have some obnoxiously loud fans), then most likely a fan controler could do you some good. Fan controllers are available in many different sizes and shapes, and feature different lights and goodies. PCToy’s System Maxx 4-channel fan controller promises to downgrade these hurricane winds into a gentle summer breeze.
The Package
The PCToys System Maxx fan controller comes in a standard blister pack. The unit is surrounded by very colorful graphics, on which are listed its features. We received both silver and black units, which is indicated on the packaging. The system controller can be seen from the front window, and all the little goodies are tucked away behind the controller. Below are the listed the package contents, as well as the controller’s specifications:
- 4 Channel Aluminum Fan Controller
- Adjustable Fan Speed Knob
- Blue LED Light
- Each Channel Supports up to 18 watts
- Great for High CFM Fans
- Fits a standard 5.25” Drive Bay
Specifications
- Input voltage: 12V +/- 10%
- Output Voltage: 7V /- 5%
- Output current: up to 1.5A
- Outline dimension: 148.5 x 41.5 x 62.5mm
- Weight: 150gm
Package Includes
- Fan Controller
- Power cable
- 2x 4-pin to 3 pin Fan Cable
- 2x 3-pin to 3-pin Fan Cables
- Mounting Screws
The fan controller itself is rather nice to look at. The main plate is aluminum and has been anodized wither silver or black. The four knobs are of decent size are are spaced apart enough to so they are easily gripped. The unit’s circuit board is powered by a standard 4-pin molex connector. Each knob has its own dedicated set of power filtering electronics and has a blue LED on either side of the knob. Four 3-pin fan connectors are clearly marked on the circuit board.
Installation
Installation is fairly easy and would be a breeze for the novice user with basic computer knowledge, although some tidy cable routing skills are needed. With 4 fan 3 pin headers on the back of the controller it is kind of hard to mess this up. The 4 enclosed installation screws secure the controller in the case. It is very easy to strip the mounting holes on the controller so you don’t over tighten those screws.
Once the controller is mounted, the fans can be connected to the board’s 3-pin connectors using the supplied fan cables. The fan cables are pretty long, so take your time routing the cables into corners and behind components to make them look as neat as possible. Once the fan cables are neatly routed to your fan, plug the fan into the fan extension.
Operation
The operation of this unit is quite simple and pain free. My old fan controller would default to 12 volts, which caused my three 120mm Delta fans to scream like a banshee. The system maxx tamed these airflow Argonauts so they were actually quiet, thanks to the System Maxx’s 7 to 12 volt variance!
I turned the controller down all the way before the computer started and will only allow 7 volts to the fans all the way down. Holy cow! It is actually quiet. Usually I have the 3 deltas pushing 130 cfm+ when I start my rig but it was actually quiet when I started.
I noticed a few improvements could be made with this product. Most computer fans today have 3 pin headers, so the 2 to 3-pin headers are a niche item and not very useful. Two extra 12-24 inch 3-pin to 3-pin fan cables would be ideal with this product, so that every fan port can use a standard 3-pin fan.
The PCToys System Maxx Fan controller is a mid-range unit and is worth every penny. Installation is a breeze, operation is easy. It is very stylish and will match most PC cases, towers and servers. This value product is something that most PC enthusiasts need when running multiple noisy fans.
We would like to thank The Cooler Guys for the opportunity to review this product. The PCToys System Maxx fan controller can be purchased at www.coolerguys.com
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